Choosing good computer and video games

Choosing good video or computer games is not an easy task, especially if you haven't played the games yourselves. Rest assured there are some good fun games for children, that are entertaining, enjoyable and extending, and not violent.

This topic covers:

• why avoid violent computer and video games
• using the classification system
• checking the games yourself
• a list of non-violent games for young children
• readings & research
• related topics.

Why avoid violent computer and video games

The present indications from what we know of the way that children learn, and from the growing body of research, is that playing computer games where violence is the major theme, is not helpful to children. (See related topics Violence in computer and video games and Violent Video Games and Other Media Violence: Craig Anderson answers FAQs)

Using the classification system

Use the classification marked on the box or arcade booth as a guide. In Australia, by law, all computer and video games (including those in arcades) have to be classified by the Australian Government Classification Board. This means that the box, or arcade booth must have the classification marked

• G -suitable for all ages
• M -recommended only for those 15yrs and over
• MA15+ -has legal force and can only be supplied to those 15 years or over.

In addition, the Board supplies "consumer advice" which indicates the chief reasons why the game got its classification (for example "medium level violence").

(See related topic Classifications-computer games)

Checking the games yourself

However, it's also prudent to do some checking of the games yourself, especially if the game has themes of violence.

Dr Craig Anderson, one of the leading researchers on video game violence, has compiled a checklist for parents to help them avoid purchasing video games that have features, which research suggests, can cause harm.

He suggests the following ways to tell if a game is potentially harmful:

1. Play the game yourself, or have someone demonstrate it for you

2. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Does the game involve some characters trying to harm others?
• Does this happen frequently, that is, more than once or twice in 30 minutes?
• Is the harm rewarded in any way?
• Is the harm depicted as humorous?
• Are non-violent solutions absent or less fun than the violent ones?
• Are realistic consequences of violence absent from the game?

If the answers to two or more questions is "yes", think very carefully about the lessons being taught before allowing access to those games.

Readings & research

• Computer/video games
  • Books, articles and reports
  • Websites
• Computers & the internet
  • Books, articles and reports
  • Websites

Related topics

Violence in computer and video games

Violent Video Games and Other Media Violence: Craig Anderson answers FAQs

Classifications-computer games